Stonewall Inn Becomes Official NYC Landmark

Legendary gay bar that launched a movement achieves landmark status as the first LGBT historic site in New York City

On Tuesday, June 23, New York City's Landmarks Preservation Commission unanimously voted to designate the Stonewall Inn on Christopher Street in Manhattan as an official New York City landmark.

The Stonewall Inn, what many people call "the birthplace of Pride," was the site of a riot that ensued during the early morning hours of June 28, 1969 after police raided the well-known gay bar. Police raids against gay establishments were commonplace at that time, but the patrons of the Stonewall were fed up and decided to fight back. This was a turning point in the Gay Rights movement, and its effects are still being felt by the LGBT community worldwide. New York City's annual Pride Parade first began to commemorate the anniversary of the riot, and has since grown into one of the largest LGBT Pride celebrations on the planet.

Stonewall's new landmark status marks the first time a site in New York City has been designated as a landmark primarily for its significance to LGBT history.

"We are excited and thrilled about Stonewall becoming an NYC landmark," said Stacy Lentz, co-owner of the Stonewall Inn. "This is a huge win, not only for LGBT New Yorkers, but those around the world as Stonewall is a beacon of freedom of oppression for the entire community. It's great the city has recognized the history of the rebellion and the site can now be preserved for future generations."